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CREATE at the Galleries: Precollege Summer Program
CREATE (Cultivating Reflection, Expression, and Artistic Transformation in Education)
It is an innovative arts education initiative designed to nurture creativity, support mental health, and expand access to enriching learning experiences for youth. The theme of the 2026 program is Your Art, Your Voice.
The program invites students aged 12–18 (grades 6–12) to participate in a dynamic blend of outdoor excursions, creative exploration, visual arts foundations, and college readiness. These programs align with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards and Kean University’s General Education Curriculum Reform, ensuring that artistic exploration is both developmentally enriching and academically grounded.
The curriculum begins with art journaling, mindfulness exercises, and studio foundations. Next, students move outdoors to engage in sculpture and drawing sessions using environmentally sustainable materials. Students participate in a combination of meditative solo art activities that encourage reflection and emotional awareness, as well as collaborative projects that help them refine their unique artistic voice among their peers. The program concludes with exhibition preparation, drafting an artist statement, and creating final works for public presentation and discussion. Students will emerge from CREATE with stronger visual literacy, confidence in their creative self-expression, and a portfolio of work for academic and artistic careers.
CREATE embodies Kean University’s commitment to inclusive, inspired, and interdisciplinary education. Sessions are led by working and teaching artists. The program is ideal for creative, curious learners who enjoy hands-on guidance and mentorship. Although the experience is rigorous, no prior skill is required, and all levels are welcome, from beginners discovering their artistic voice to advanced students seeking deeper development.
Program Duration:
Monday - Thursday / 9 am - 3 pm.
Session I: July 6 - July 9, 2026
Session II: July 13 - July 16, 2026
Age Group: 12 to 18 years old
Exhibition: July 17
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Summer Session Information
CREATE At the Galleries Summer (Pre-College Program) offers students aged 12-18 an enriching exploration of outdoor excursions and college preparation opportunities. Taking place from July 6 - 9, and July 13 - 16. This summer program provides a vibrant platform for creative expression and mental health awareness, catering to children in grades 6 - 12. Through dynamic art workshops like painting and drawing, sculpture exploration, and meditative arts, students explore various visual mediums while fostering self-expression. Our commitment to holistic well-being extends to educator resources, offering comprehensive guides and curriculum aligned with New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards. We support educators in establishing dynamic experiential learning environments and provide ongoing assistance to ensure meaningful art experiences for students
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Program Highlights:
Diverse Art Disciplines: Young artists will have the chance to explore various artistic disciplines including drawing, painting, digital art, and more. Whether you're a budding painter or a digital art enthusiast our program has something for everyone.
Campus as Your Canvas: Our program takes full advantage of our location with outdoor excursions. Students will draw inspiration from the vibrant natural landscape, outdoor sculpture collection, the Galleries permanent art collection, and exhibitions.
College Preparation: Designed to give teens a taste of the college art experience, this program includes college and career development, portfolio building, and guidance on enjoying the college environment to the fullest.
Collaborative Projects: Teens will participate in group projects that foster teamwork, creativity, and build their communication skills. This collaborative aspect enriches the overall learning experience.
Art History and Critique: Students will explore the history of art, engage in thoughtful critiques that deepen their understanding, and hone their ability to analyze and discuss artwork.
Visiting Artists and Workshops: Visiting artists will share their expertise and conduct hands-on workshops providing valuable insight and inspiration.
Portfolio Review: At the end of the program, students will have the opportunity to showcase their work in a gallery exhibition. This serves as an excellent addition to their portfolio.
CAMPUS Exploration: Beyond the studio, students will discover campus through guided tours, visits to art galleries, and exploration of Kean’s outdoor sculpture collection giving them a broader perspective of art.
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About the Galleries at Kean
The Galleries at Kean serve as a vibrant center for arts education, cultural engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives like CREATE, the Galleries nurture creativity and support community connections across the region.